Wines Franschhoek Holden Manz - Big G - 2019

Viniou Reviews

Holden Manz’s Cuvée Big G 2019 is a flagship red wine from the well-renowned Franschhoek appellation in South Africa’s Coastal Region. This cuvée is a classic Bordeaux-style blend, likely dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, perhaps complemented by Cabernet Franc or Malbec, though the precise blend could vary by vintage. The 2019 vintage benefited from a long, balanced growing season, producing grapes with excellent ripeness and structure. Matured in French oak barrels, this wine typically showcases a deep, garnet colour and aromatic complexity—blackcurrant, plum, graphite, cedar, with gentle hints of spice from oak maturation. Expect a full-bodied, elegant palate, combining ripe black fruits, fine tannins, and vibrant acidity, offering both immediate pleasure and promising ageing potential.

Franschhoek, nestled at the foothills of dramatic mountains, is one of South Africa’s most historic wine valleys. Influenced by its proximity to the cooling Atlantic Ocean breezes, the region experiences warm days and cool, refreshing nights. These diurnal shifts favour slow grape ripening, preserving acidity and enhancing aromatic profile in the wines. The soils in Franschhoek are predominantly alluvial with decomposed granite, offering excellent drainage and contributing to the intensity and minerality of the resulting wines. The valley, settled originally by French Huguenots in the late 17th century, stands as a testament to the blending of European savoir-faire and South African terroir.

For the Cuvée Big G, food pairs beautifully with hearty, flavoursome dishes. Consider a perfectly grilled ribeye steak, lamb shank with rosemary, or even an oxtail stew. Local South African options such as bobotie (spiced mince with egg topping) or karoo lamb bring out the wine’s vibrant fruit and spice character. Mature cheeses or mushroom risotto would also work remarkably well, providing earthy notes to mirror the wine’s complexity.

Serve this wine at 16-18°C, ideally after decanting for an hour to allow the bouquet and tannins to fully open. Enjoy now for youthful vibrancy or cellar for 5-7 years to experience evolving, tertiary aromas and greater integration.